Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has made an impressive return to the national team at the age of 40, reversing his retirement decision from last year. The former captain and India’s all-time leading goal scorer had said goodbye in June 2024 after a World Cup qualifier against Kuwait. However, head coach Manolo Marquez has welcomed him back, acknowledging his significance in India’s pursuit of qualification for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Career Highlights
- Debut: Against Pakistan in 2005, scoring India’s only goal.
- Most-Capped Indian Player: Over 140 international appearances.
- Fourth-Highest International Goal Scorer (Men’s): Over 90 international goals, ranking alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei.
Club Career
- Played for Kansas City Wizards (USA) and Sporting CP B (Portugal).
- Spent most of his career with Bengaluru FC (India).
- Almost joined Queens Park Rangers (England) in 2009 but was denied a work permit.
Reason for returning
• India aims to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
• Coach Manolo Marquez took the initiative to persuade Chhetri to come back for important matches.
• India will face Maldives on March 19 and Bangladesh on March 25 as part of their preparations.
• Chhetri’s experience and leadership are anticipated to enhance India’s performance.
